The Dallas Cowboys made a notable shift in their quarterback room this offseason by trading a fifth-round pick to acquire Joe Milton III from the New England Patriots. While the move didn’t generate the same level of buzz as a major free agent signing or blockbuster trade, it still marked a significant development, especially with veteran Cooper Rush’s departure.
Speaking at the Children’s Cancer Fund Gala in Dallas, Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott publicly addressed the transition for the first time, offering insight into what Milton brings to the team and paying tribute to the contributions of Rush.
Dak Prescott Opens Up About Losing Cooper Rush and Adding Joe Milton
Prescott didn’t hide his emotions when discussing Cooper Rush, who joined the Baltimore Ravens on a two-year, $6.2 million deal after eight seasons with the Cowboys. Rush, who started 14 games during his Dallas tenure, was much more than a backup in Prescott’s eyes.
.@SaadYousuf126 asked #Cowboys QB Dak Prescott about the loss of Cooper Rush in a changing QB room. Dak didn’t hesitate when he heard Rush’s name to say “ah, man.”
Prescott speaks about Rush, Will Grier and the addition of Joe Milton. pic.twitter.com/QHGnqRKD0A
— Joseph Hoyt (@JoeJHoyt)
“I don’t know if I could ever put a value on what Cooper Rush has meant to me throughout my career, honestly,” Prescott said. “The only year he wasn’t my backup was the year I got hurt within five games. You’re talking about a guy who approaches the game the right way, is a real man off the field, a true leader in what he does, and the way that he walks.”
Prescott also added that Baltimore was getting a “hell of a guy” and a strong leader who would bring value to their quarterback room. The respect and bond between Prescott and Rush were evident in his words, showing how much the Cowboys’ star valued Rush’s presence on and off the field.
Leadership and Competition Drive Cowboys’ Quarterback Room
With Rush now in Baltimore, the Cowboys turned to Joe Milton III as a potential long-term backup option. Milton, a former University of Tennessee standout, enters a quarterback room that also includes Will Grier. Prescott made it clear that competition and growth are top priorities.
“I’m excited to add Joe to this room, and Will as well. If another one gets added in the meantime, it’s all about elevating our game as the leaders, as the quarterback position, to make sure the message to the rest of the team is clear and concise,” Prescott said.
Prescott emphasized that his focus remains on building a room where everyone pushes each other and improves. He praised Grier’s mindset and work ethic, showing faith in the depth Dallas has assembled.
Though the transition marks the end of an era with Rush, Prescott’s confidence in the team’s quarterback leadership remains steady. As the 2025 season approaches, it’s clear that the Cowboys’ signal-caller is focused on continuity, competition, and clarity.
